New Zealand coach Brian McClennan has distanced himself from the vacant Sydney Roosters coaching job.

McClennan is likely to be on a shortlist of candidates to replace Ricky Stuart as head coach of the Bondi Junction club after the New Zealand Rugby League indicated they would not oppose the move.

The Roosters' board has a sub-committee to identify possible candidates, although the club has indicated there will be no rush to appoint Stuart's replacement.

McClennan, who masterminded Australia's Tri Nations defeat last year, is also rumoured to be in the mix for the St Helens head coaching position if Daniel Anderson takes over at the Roosters.

"I'm not into being part of gossip stuff - I can't talk," McClennan said.

"I'll talk about that after the Tri Nations, all I'm worried about is the Kiwis boys, that's all I'm thinking about.

"I'm only talking Kiwis mate."

McClennan, the coach of the Auckland Lions in New Zealand's Bartercard Cup competition, has previously stated he would be ready to consider a coaching role in the NRL from 2007.

Cronulla is reportedly set to approach Stuart about replacing current coach Stuart Raper, with the club conducting a review after losing its last ten matches of the season.

However, Stuart's manager, John Fordham, said there had been no approach.

"There have been no discussions with either Ricky or me, we haven't been called and we haven't called them," Fordham said.

"Stuart Raper is the coach of Cronulla - they wouldn't be approaching you if they already have a coach."

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